15 October 2006 Media Statement

Parliament on the move in Push Play challenge

The Parliamentary Push Play challenge starts today, with MPs and press gallery journalists taking up the call to get on the move as part of Push Play Nation, Sport and Recreation Minister Trevor Mallard said today.

"The aim of this year's Parliamentary Push Play Challenge is not about finding the fittest, the fastest, or the strongest – rather it's about encouraging all of us to lead healthy lifestyles by incorporating regular physical activity into our everyday lives.

"Push Play Nation is a new promotion running through October to encourage people to be active for the whole month, in the hope of establishing a physical activity habit. People are encouraged to register on the SPARC website (www.sparc.org.nz) or by phoning 0800 ACTIVE (228 483). Once registered, they will receive encouraging emails from a selected 'celebrity buddy' with ideas for being active. They will also receive a registration pack that provides a wall planner with training programmes.

" All political parties and press gallery journalists are welcome to participate in the parliamentary challenge which will run to 29 October. The winner will receive bragging rights for the next 12 months, and the Push Play 'Golden Sneakers' Trophy will also be at stake again.

" The aim is for each person to do 30 minutes a day on at least five days each week, either through through 'snacktivity' ( spurts of physical activity that add up to 30 minutes), or 30 minutes non-stop (which earns a bonus point). It may be as simple as taking a brisk walk before or after work or at lunchtime, or holding walking meetings. Or MPs and journalists might like to catch up with their reading while on the treadmill, or walk the stairs instead of taking lifts.

"This challenge as in previous years relies on honesty in accumulating points – but there will be random spot checks around parliament to ensure fair play."

This promotion builds up to national Push Play day on Friday 3 November, which is a celebration of those who are, or have become, more active and also a prompt for those who could benefit from a more active lifestyle.

New Zealand's most active region (measured by registrations) will be announced on Push Play day.

Ends

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